Helenius, Riku

Bolt Prospects has learned from the Lightning that 2006 first rounder Riku Helenius has been cleared to play after recovering from shoulder surgery. Helenius, who was named the Lightning's top-ranked prospect and the 41st overall ranked prospect in The Hockey News' Future Watch, will participate in an under-19 tournament in St. Petersburg, Russia starting April 10.

Helenius' junior team has completed its season, recently being knocked out of the playoffs, and the goaltender will not join the Ilves Elite team as they're currently in a playoff run.

I talked yesterday with doctor (M.D) of Team Ilves about Riku Helenius. He said, that RikuÂ´s healing is in schedule. Riku has no-contact "order", but he is practicing at ice. I understand, what doctor said, that Riku is skating, but nothing more. They will evaluate RikuÂ´s permission to play in late February. So Riku might get in action early March. Sadly I know, that Riku will play in Ilves Jr. team rest of the season, because menÂ´s team has already two goalies. We will hope, that Tuukka Rask is heading to Boston next summer and Riku might get a chance to be No. 1 goalie in Team Ilves in next season.

According to the Tampa Tribune, 2006 1st round pick Riku Helenius is done for the year after undergoing shoulder surgery. Also, contrary to previous speculation, Andy Rogers has been diagnosed with a hip injury drawing the ire of Lightning management.